In The Wall Street Journal Tom Downey calls Japan “the most culturally cosmopolitan country on earth.” In a wide-ranging article that looks at Japanese culture his description of examples of Japanese perfectionism stand out:

Over two decades of recession have meant that pricey imports are beginning to dry up. This is allowing for Japanese culture to truly shine through on the streets of Tokyo.

In Japan the norm is tiny restaurants that rely on personal interaction. The chef of one famous restaurant that has received three Michelin stars says that he bought the restaurant to cook, and personally tastes every dish that leaves his kitchen. He refuses to expand.

One hotel watches for guests returning from a run, and when they do, dispatches a runner to give them a bottle of water and a hand towel.

To read more about fascinating examples of Japanese perfectionism, what bartending looks like in a country where 40% of the population can’t process alcohol, and why this may all end very soon making now the time to visit, click here.